Sacramento State is hosting the 11th annual Black History Rally from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 in the University Union Ballroom.

The rally ?” “Recognizing, Educating and Celebrating Our Contributions” ?” will feature performances and guest speakers in celebration of Black History Month, according to Adam Williams, the student representative board member for Cooper-Woodson College Enhancement Program.

The rally will be an open event, and several high schools and middle schools in the Sacramento area have been invited to attend by the association.

Guest speakers include Ahjamu Umi, speaking to the student attendees, James Reed, Ph.D., showcasing Black inventions, and Kory Martian, speaking to the junior high and high school attendees.

Featured performers are singer Cliffton Gibson, poet Dahlak, rapper Zealous, stepping performed by various fraternities and sororities and West African drumming and dancing by Lion’s Den Entertainment.

The emcee for the event will be spoken word poet Rodzilla. The event will also have music with DJ Barney B and the event will also feature food, African arts and crafts, and clothing vendors.

For more information on the event and other campus events for Black History Month visit www.csus.edu/cooper.

Matthew Beltran can be reached at [email protected]